Tuberculosis of bones and joints
ICD-10 A18.0 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of tuberculosis of bones and joints.
Tuberculosis of bones and joints is a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that primarily affects the skeletal system. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can spread from the lungs or other infected sites to the bones and joints. The condition often presents with localized pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected area. Common sites include the spine (Pott's disease), hips, knees, and other joints. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, along with laboratory tests including sputum cultures and tuberculin skin tests. Treatment usually consists of a prolonged course of antitubercular medications, often requiring monitoring for drug resistance and side effects. Public health implications are significant, as tuberculosis is a contagious disease, necessitating contact tracing and isolation procedures for active cases. The management of tuberculosis of bones and joints requires a multidisciplinary approach, including orthopedic evaluation and possibly surgical intervention in severe cases.
Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, diagnostic tests, and treatment plan.
Patients presenting with bone pain and a history of tuberculosis exposure.
Monitoring for drug resistance and adherence to treatment regimens.
Imaging reports, surgical notes if applicable, and follow-up assessments.
Surgical intervention for abscess drainage or stabilization of affected joints.
Coordination with infectious disease specialists for comprehensive care.
Used when aspirating a joint affected by tuberculosis.
Document the indication for aspiration and findings.
Orthopedic specialists should ensure proper coding based on the joint involved.
Common symptoms include localized pain, swelling, fever, and limited range of motion in the affected joint or bone. Patients may also experience systemic symptoms such as weight loss and night sweats.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies (like X-rays or MRI), and laboratory tests including sputum cultures and tuberculin skin tests.
Treatment usually involves a multi-drug regimen of antitubercular medications over a period of 6 to 12 months, with careful monitoring for drug resistance and side effects.
Public health measures include contact tracing, isolation of active cases, and monitoring for drug resistance to prevent the spread of tuberculosis.
